The Cinqueterre line, which is the main line along the coast towards the French Riviera,  is at least 50% in tunnels. It is mostly double track with single track segments. There are frequent third-track sidings especially at the stations. It’s CTC, and very  busy.

There is a half-hourly local passenger service that links the little towns along the coast. There are also Intercity and FrecciaBianca (high speed express) trains linking major cities such as Genoa and La Spezia. In an area where automobile travel is restricted at best, the train is the main transportation facility. In addition to hordes of tourists, it is clearly how the local folks get around.

We saw plenty of freight trains too, including container trains hustling to and from the big container port at Genoa. The Italian Railways have an amazing PA system that announces approaching trains, including freights and express passenger trains, at every platform.

Most of the local trains are powered by Bombardier build electric locos. Everything is push-pull, with a variety of funky cab cars.

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After Monterosso, we were bound for Parma. Click here for Chapter 6 – Parma